US visa revocations — The US State Department announced on Monday that it has revoked more than 175,000 visas since January 2025, a move that signals a marked increase in immigration enforcement since Donald Trump began his second term. In its statement, the department explained that the majority of these visa revocations were the result of law enforcement encounters involving a range of criminal activities. Assault, driving under the influence, theft, and drug-related crimes were identified as the leading causes for the visa cancellations.

The statement further detailed that a significant portion of the revoked visas were linked to offenses such as reckless driving, sexual assault, child abuse, fraud, and embezzlement, as well as other criminal acts. Officials underscored that holding a US visa is considered a privilege rather than a right, and stressed the department’s ongoing commitment to using every available tool to protect American communities from individuals who violate the terms of their stay or are involved in criminal behavior.

Since Trump’s return to the White House, his administration has moved to tighten immigration policies. These efforts have included a crackdown on undocumented immigrants and increased scrutiny of those holding US visas. The large-scale revocation of visas is seen as part of a broader trend toward stricter entry requirements and more rigorous monitoring of foreign nationals who are already in the United States.

This policy shift is expected to have significant consequences for international travelers, students, and professionals who wish to live, work, or study in the US. Individuals from Serbia and the wider Balkan region, among others, may face increased challenges as a result of the heightened enforcement measures. The State Department’s actions highlight the changing landscape of US immigration policy and the increased risks faced by foreign nationals who are found to have committed legal infractions while in the country.

The department’s statement reiterated its position that the privilege of holding a US visa can be withdrawn in cases of criminal activity, and that it remains committed to safeguarding American communities. The announcement comes as part of a series of measures aimed at reinforcing the administration’s stance on immigration and public safety.